John & Jen

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John & Jen

Original Off-Broadway Version (1995)

An intimate look at the complexities of familial relationships in a changing America.

A truly original musical that honors brothers and sisters, as well as parents and children, set against the background of a changing America between 1950 and 1990, John & Jen is a gem of a show, brimming with intelligence, wit and beautiful melodies.

This is the story of Jen and her relationships with the two Johns of her life: her younger brother, who was killed in Vietnam, and his namesake, the son who is trying to find his way in a confusing world. Jen and her younger brother, John, are growing up in the ever-changing world of mid-century America. As the country becomes divided over the war in Vietnam, so does the family, and battle lines are drawn between the once-close siblings. When John is killed in Vietnam, Jen is left to reconcile her memory of their fractured relationship along with her son and brother's namesake.

With a cast of only two people, John & Jen is a tour-de-force for two actors, taking them from childhood, through adolescence, and beyond. A chamber musical, beautifully scored for piano, cello and percussion, John & Jen is a musical about connections, commitments and the healing of the human heart.

Questions & Answers

Act 1

Hello,
I communicated with the author of this show about shortening the show to fit within time constraints of my venue, and he suggested I do just the frist act. Because of the show it is, I think it would totally work. Is this okay with MTI? Is there any other information you can provide? Thank you!